Great notes are NOT every word spoken. Great notes capture ONLY the high points -- that is to say, just the important stuff with a few well chosen examples!
When taking textbook notes, first read the notes, questions, vocabulary lists, and study guides at the end of the chapter to find out what the authors thought was important.
Chapter titles, subheads, bolded words, illustrations and captions are also clues as to what is important.
Write a sentence or two about each subheading, putting the information into you own words. This will help you identify the significant points and remember them.
Present your lecture notes like a textbook. Use underlining, stars, large letters, and illustrations to help keep things clear and indicate what should be remembered.
Notice what the instructor emphasizes -- the names, dates, and topics upon which he or she spends the most time.
Try to give yourself enough examples and details in your notes. Remember, however, that once you've made the point, you needn't get down the instructor's every word.
Look over your notes the same day while they are fresh in your mind. Make any clarifications, and jot down questions to ask in class the next day.
Consider numbering your notebook pages and making a Table of Contents for your notes to guide you quickly to specific topics during study or test time.